This February, Minnesotans can experience a musical journey like no other with The Sound of Gospel, a production honoring the profound legacy of gospel music and its impact on the African American experience. Hosted by 2nd Chance Outreach, the uplifting performances are Feb. 8 and 9 at the historic Fitzgerald Theater in downtown St. Paul.
Produced by playwright and executive director William Pierce and directed by Academy Award-nominated actress and vocalist Jevetta Steele, The Sound of Gospel weaves together history, music and storytelling to create an unforgettable celebration of Black History Month. Musical direction comes from Grammy Award-winning artist Billy Steele, ensuring a performance that is as musically rich as it is emotionally moving.
“Spirituals were born of resistance — providing humanity during inhuman times,” said Peirce. “These songs helped African Americans through challenging, desperate moments. Today they continue to provide inspiration, hope and encouragement.”
The show traces the evolution of gospel music, beginning in Africa with the beat of a drum. From there, audiences are taken on a journey through time, featuring work and freedom songs, Negro spirituals, choirs, quartets, and today’s contemporary and urban gospel.
The production is deeply personal for Pierce, who grew up in Sallis, Mississippi, in a family rich with musical talent. “My dad was a great singer, and his mother and three sisters were singers as well,” Pierce said.
“I grew up surrounded by gospel music, especially on Sunday mornings. It resonated with me — the suffering, the joy, the liberation in those songs. They established a foundation in me about who I am in this life.”
When Pierce moved to Minneapolis, he brought this foundation with him, determined to share the impact gospel music had on his life. This passion led to the creation of The Sound of Gospel, which premiered in 2018 at the National Baptist Convention in Minneapolis. The production returned in 2020 before the pandemic, then resumed in 2022, growing in popularity each year. Last year’s sold-out performances at the Cowles Center set the stage for its highly anticipated debut at the Fitzgerald.
The power of The Sound of Gospel lies in its ability to connect people through music, which Pierce describes as a “universal language.” The show is both educational and inspiring, offering audiences a deeper understanding of gospel music’s historical significance while celebrating its power to unite.
The production’s two-hour runtime features 14 songs, each carefully selected to represent distinct eras, from West African history and slavery to the Civil Rights and Black Power movements and urban gospel heard today. Transitions between eras are narrated by cast members, allowing the audience to understand not just the music but the context and composers behind it.
Steele emphasized the immersive experience awaiting attendees. “The audience will be surrounded by some of the best Twin Cities performing artists. I try to enhance the performances by incorporating new elements each year. This production opens with the beat of the drum, symbolizing the journey that carries through the entire show.”
Beyond the music, The Sound of Gospel offers an opportunity to share stories that foster understanding and connection. “If you can share your story with someone, they have a better understanding of your life history,” said Pierce. “The music helps transform them. We want people to leave loving each other more, respecting each other more, and coming together more.”
The show also reflects the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose words remain a guiding force for the production. “I am convinced that people hate each other because they fear each other,” King said. “They fear each other because they don’t know each other. And they don’t know each other because they don’t communicate with each other.”
Pierce believes music is a vital way to bridge these divides. “It’s hard to hate when you’re listening to spirituals,” he said. “Music brings us together and allows us to communicate universally.”
While The Sound of Gospel honors the African American experience, its message of hope, peace and inspiration transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries. Regardless of one’s background, attending the show promises to be a transformative experience.
The production provides an opportunity to explore the African American story through a historical lens, reflecting on the profound impact gospel music has had on both the community and individuals while envisioning its continued role in bringing hope to the world.
Proceeds from The Sound of Gospel will benefit 2nd Chance Outreach, furthering its mission of using art to transform lives and communities.
